For spectacular mountain and coastal views, visit Jinguashi Geopark. Jinguashi means Gold Melon Rock and during the 1800s and 1900s this was a prime location for gold mining. Explore the the hillsides and valleys of Jinguashi Geopark to discover relics from the gold rush era. Among the attractions here is an accessible mine, a royal palace, shrines and a museum complex home to exhibitions about gold prospecting.
Footpaths zigzag around the lush hillsides of the park, which has a stunning location between mountains and the sea. Put on a pair of walking shoes and hike to secluded spots to enjoy the scenery accompanied only by the sounds of nature. Discover a quarry framed by tall cliffs and with rocks laid strewn across a grassy bed. From the eastern foothills the views reach over forest-clad mountaintops toward the deep-blue waters of the East China Sea.
Climb a long pathway of stone steps up the park’s northern hillside to the ruins of the Jinguashi Shinto Shrine. A mining company built the temple in honor of the holy powers of the Shinto religion. All that remains today are the shrine’s stone torii gate, pillars and lanterns. They overlook lush green landscapes and create a mystical ambiance, especially when draped in mist.
At the New Taipei City Gold Museum, the Gold Building has displays of gold mining artifacts, old photographs and storyboards. Touch one of the world’s biggest gold bars and try your hand at gold panning. Experience the life of a miner on a tour of the Benshan Fifth Tunnel and walk the gardens of the regal Crown Prince Chalet. The museum is open daily and fees apply for general admission and activities.
Located in the Ruifang District, Jinguashi Geopark is an hour’s drive from central New Taipei City. From the mountain town of Jiufen the park is less than 10 minutes by car. A direct bus service travels to the region from Taipei’s Songshan Station.
